Eclectic modern Airbnb interior design in Durham, NC
Pops of color, a chic mix of traditional and modern lines, and a palette drawn from Durham itself, designed and furnished to turn a short-term rental into a guest favorite.
Stand out with a look that is unmistakably Durham
Competition is fierce in the world of short term rentals. Getting potential guests to click on your listing and book it can be tough, so great Airbnb design, functional amenities, useful necessities, fun games and professional photographs can definitely make a difference. Once booked, your place needs to actually feel cozy, be functional, and have personality beyond the nice pictures and listing description. If you need help designing and installing your short term rental, check our services and book a free session to talk through your project scope.
In order to differentiate from the competition, we create a unique style and color palette that stands out from other listings. Here, we wanted to bring pops of color and keep a chic mood by mixing traditional furniture lines with more modern ones. The palette inspiration came from the blue of the Duke Blue Devils and the brick found in many of Durham’s buildings. We also love to bring the outdoors inside with touches of green and some southern tropical vibes.
Living areas
The main living spaces mix a chic, colorful palette with a comfortable, functional layout built for groups to gather.
Upstairs bedrooms and bathrooms
There were three bedrooms upstairs. The larger one could easily fit two queen beds, a great way to maximize the sleeping space, and its mood and decor are a shout-out to Durham’s industrial and brick heritage. The inspiration for the two smaller bedrooms is the cardinal, the state bird of North Carolina. Miss and Mister Cardinal each have their own bedroom, with wooden accents, natural bedside sconces and a custom green arch, and they meet in the adjacent bathroom.
Master bedroom and ensuite
The master bedroom with ensuite is downstairs, with direct access to the back porch and a view of the backyard, so it was the perfect room to bring in the exterior and some tropical vibes. The wallpaper, the rattan bed and bench, the monkey table lamps, and the giant leaf above the desk contrast with some modern furniture touches. Every piece is chosen to be durable enough for guest turnover.
Outdoor
Finally, the backyard has to be treated as any other living space, and it can be a critical differentiator for guests. As space allowed, we installed an outdoor table that fits all guests, plus a grill, an outdoor umbrella, and string lights for evening dinners. Some fun outdoor games along with a screen and projector create an inviting exterior.
Durham Airbnb design, answered
Design only starts at $4,000, and a full turnkey setup, design plus furniture and install, at $8,700 for a one-bedroom. The furniture budget is separate and stays yours. See the full short-term rental pricing.
Contract-grade pieces, performance fabrics and solid frames, hold up to guest turnover far better than cheap furniture. See our guide to durable furniture for an Airbnb.
Yes. Professionally designed short-term rentals photograph better, attract more bookings, and justify higher nightly rates, and a designer improves the layout and functionality of the home.
Design a Durham rental that stands out
Book a discovery call or take the quiz, and we will design and furnish a short-term rental built to book. See the full Airbnb interior design service and pricing.

